Easy Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe

If you’ve ever had Cracker Barrel’s fried apples you know how absolutely delicious they are. They’re a classic southern side dish that brings comforting flavors to any meal. Whether you enjoy them as a delicious side dish, dessert, or even for breakfast, these apples bring a sweet and cinnamon-spiced flavor and soft texture. This copycat recipe is super easy to make and requires ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen! 

One of the best things about this copycat Cracker Barrel recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust the sweetness, add more spices or experiment with adding different ingredients. It’s a simple recipe that works for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family dinner or looking for an easy dessert idea. 

Ingredients for this Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe

Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements.

• Apples: are the main ingredient of this easy recipe, so picking the right apples is important. I recommend using Granny Smith apples or Golden Delicious because they hold up well during cooking. They’re also tart and sweet which pairs well with the caramelized sauce. 
• Butter: adds a rich and creamy flavor while helping caramelize the sugar. It also helps create the texture of the sauce. 
• Granulated Sugar: adds sweetness to the dish and helps balance out the brown sugar. It also creates the light syrup the apples cook in. 
• Dark Brown Sugar: has a deep, molasses-like sweetness that pairs well with the tartness of the apples. Brown sugar caramelizes while cooking, creating a delicious sauce that coats the apples. 
• Salt: helps with enhancing the flavor of the recipe. 
• Cinnamon: brings the apples a warm and spicy flavor, creating comforting flavors. It also pairs well with the sweetness and tartness of the apples. 
• Nutmeg: pairs well with the cinnamon by adding another comforting spice with an earthy and slightly sweet flavor. 
• Lemon Juice: adds a bright acidity to the recipe that helps balance out the sweetness. It also prevents the apples from browning. 

How to make this copycat version of Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe

Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the full step-by-step instructions.

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples.
2. In a large cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apple slices to the large skillet and stir to coat them with butter.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften.
4. Top with the lemon juice, sprinkle the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg over the apples.
5. Stir well to combine and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the apples are tender but not mushy.
6. Remove from heat and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious fried apples just like Cracker Barrel!

Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe Tips 

• Choosing the Right Apples: Granny Smith and Golden Delicious are my favorites for this recipe because they hold their shape when cooked. If you prefer a softer apple I recommend using Fuji or Gala apples. Keep in mind softer apples may become mushy if overcooked. 
• Balancing Sweetness: If you find the recipe a little too sweet, reduce the amount to white sugar. You can also use less brown sugar, especially if your apples are on the sweeter side. 
• Avoiding Mushy Apples: Make sure your apples are cooked over medium heat while stirring gently to avoid breaking them down too much. Keep an eye on the texture and remove from heat as soon as the apples become fork-tender. 
• Serve Warm or Room Temperature: These apples are perfect when served warm but also great when served at room temperature. Try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a drizzle of caramel sauce, French toast, or savory dishes like pork chops.
• Add Other Flavors: Try adding in a splash of vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste, or a handful of chopped pecans to add some texture. 

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

What type of apples should I use for fried apples?

The best apples to use are Granny Smith or Golden Delicious because they have a firm texture. Granny Smith apples are a tart apple, which pairs well with the sweetness of the sugar, while Golden Delicious apples are naturally sweeter. You can also use Fuji apples, Gala, or Honeycrisp. However, they may break down quicker while cooking, making your apples more of an applesauce consistency. 

How do I prevent my apples from becoming mushy?

The key to preventing mushy apples is to select an apple that has a firm texture, cook it over a medium heat, and monitor it while cooking. Stirring too rough can also cause the apples to break apart. Cook your apples until they’re fork tender, which will make sure that they maintain their shape without becoming mushy. 

Can I make the fried apples recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This is a great recipe to make ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat them, warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or apple juice if needed. You can also reheat them in the microwave, which can cause them to lose a bit of texture. 

Can I freeze leftover fried apples?

You can make a large batch and freeze your apples for about three months. Allow your apples to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight or freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the apples in the fridge overnight and reheat them on the stove when ready to eat. You can also warm them up in the microwave at 30-second increments, which might make your apples too soft.

Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe